Why You Should Take Your Family to The Museum

Spending precious time with the family doesn’t require too much money all the time. Sometimes all it takes is a trip to something exciting, engaging, and most of all, fun. You will be surprised that all of these may be experienced in a museum display. Here are reasons why you should take your family to that fancy new exhibition showcase opening up around the corner:

1. Museums hold a lot of stories to tell. It is a sanctuary of the history and culture evolution in which people could learn a lot from. Books may be able to describe but museums show. Experiencing a day in the museum as a family allows sharing of thoughts on these which makes it memorable and worth discussing. It encourages each member of the family to give input, therefore, enhancing communication, bonding, and insightfulness.

2. Museums do not only tell stories about the past, but they also give way to the latest inventions. They showcase the latest discoveries and they give way to mock gadgets. Some of them combine technology and storytelling for visitors to have a virtual reality walk-through of some displays. Some take the opportunity to feature their museum using augmented reality to heighten up the learning experience. An experience of what stolen paintings look like was also made possible.

3. Museums house a lot of paintings, sculptures and many different forms of artwork. This is a great chance for you to see different perceptions, coming from your own family. Some views on certain masterpieces could be interesting to know since different perceptions say a lot about a persons whole being. Some people end up being depressed because they were never heard or they were never able to express themselves safely. Here, we can understand them reasoning deeply and could aid a family member if there are signs of depression, anxiety or inferiority complex.

art, frames, gallery

4. Because of tangible relics and displays, learning comes easy compared to the usual way of doing so in the classroom. Visual learning is enhanced by museums and there is longer retention of information because there is a stronger association of the objects to events or its meaning. Scientific processes may also be understood quite easier since there are workrooms or work corners in the museum that allows you to witness them.

5. Exposing children to museums at an early age ignites their curiosity about what’s out there. It opens up their minds to discovering something beyond the usual. This encourages them to tap into their abstract thinking. And in doing so, they gain not just knowledge, but also deeper reasoning. They get inspired along the way too and heightens up their sense of creativity. They can use it later on in life to integrate with the skills needed to thrive.

6. People of all ages are entitled to their interpretation of an artwork. Sharing this experience to a family member makes a free-flow dialogue in which both learn from each other. When you ask your child of his favourite painting in a gallery and why, you’re providing a different kind of platform for freedom of expression, emotions, opinions, and beliefs. When in the everyday routine at home, this usually ends up untouched. It’s either the adults are busy at work or the kids are busy in school that time could go by without even talking.

7. Young children who get to be exposed to a welcoming learning environment like a museum are provided with sturdy pillars for cognitive growth and development. Their imagination expands to great heights because they are encouraged to explore, and converse. It enhances their confidence, it empowers their knowledge and it sharpens their reasoning.

At any given time, the way memories form among family members sit in the brains as part of their long-term memory. Bringing your family in a museum nurtures a positive effect on a person’s long-term memory because of its association with something learned. The knowledge that results from it is formed as familial relationships get strengthened.

Hobart’s Food Scene

If you reside on the Australian mainland, there is a fantastic opportunity to explore. if Hobart is not on your foodie radar yet, you should really consider it. It is a town that is always underestimated, except for those fortunate enough to visit. The Tasmanian food arena has gone from strength to strength recently, together with leatherwood honey, Bruny Island oysters and Sullivan’s Cove whiskey all making waves in the domestic and global scene. Therefore, if you are a fine create enthusiast or simply a thirsty oenophile seeking the ideal pinot, you should probably reserve a one-way ticket into Hobart. From fine dining to cheap eats, here is a foodie guide to the coolest city on the Apple Isle.

Salamanca Markets

If you are in Hobart over a weekend, then including the Salamanca Markets for your own food itinerary is a no-brainer. On Saturdays from 8:30 am till 3 pm, well more than a hundred people, farmers and food providers take into the road along Salamanca Place to market their wares. If you do not have a lot of time to invest in Hobart, this is where you can sample a few of the finest locally made goods from all around Tasmania. Think specialty cheeses, condiments, spirits, wine, chocolates and much more. My recommendation? Have a look at the Tasmania Chilli Beer Co, a boutique micro-brewery that infuses chili in their brews, adding to the total flavor instead of spicing it up. If you aren’t a beer drinker, then, in addition, they have non-alcoholic variations of the ginger beer along with a chili raspberry mixture you have just got to test. Not importing to the’mainland’, Tassie is the only place it’s possible to enjoy this deal.

Farm Gate Market

The Farm Gate Market (open Sundays) is a bigger but rewarding farmer’s market with an adequate selection of boutique providers and new eats. You’ll find it in a car park on Melville Street from 9 am until about 1 pm, crammed with stallholders selling heaps of dishes, for example, signature neighborhood dish, scallop dish, produced from new Tassie Bass Strait scallops with a creamy curry-ish sauce all wrapped up in a buttery, flaky pastry. Additionally, there are enormous cheese sticks, fresh honey, pastries, and a good deal of veggies and fruit. If you are heading into MONA (Museum of Old and New Art) collect some picnic supplies in the markets (or some other nearby grocery sockets — many of these have a neighborhood food department ) and enjoy a picnic on the grass close to the shore. MONA also includes a café, fine dining restaurant and the Moorilla winery with cellar door, a fantastic place if you adore your little batch wines. Moo Brew, MONA’s popular beer, can be readily available for tastings and brewery tours also.

Breakfast

But, whichever day you arrive, there is no better way to begin your foodie experience than a leisurely breakfast. The Salamanca Wharf Café is absolutely one of the best breakfast areas around Hobart. Situated on Castray Esplanade, the menu serves up a few fantastic fares like the obligatory chopped avocado and Bircher muesli, but also refreshing spins such as breakfast salads with quinoa, lentils, herbs, poached eggs, and avocado.

Spirits

Just outside Hobart, you will also discover an increase in production of small pile spirits and we could not go passed McHenry Distillery who’s certainly assisting from the resurgence of gin as the drink of choice. Specifically, their sloe gin is one we could not pass up. A suggestion direct from the distillery would be to test it on vanilla ice cream- bliss!

If whiskey is the thing, Tasmania is rapidly becoming Australia’s go-to destination for whiskey fans and Lark Distillery’s basement door located near Hobart’s waterfront (on Davey Street) is the ideal speed to sample off with over a hundred whiskeys available. You are able to try them from your shot or half a shot.

Dining and treats

The thing that Hobart certainly does nicely is surprises, along with the dining scene here which actually is charming. You will find fine dining restaurants such as The Glass House at the conclusion of Brooke Street Pier, with its floating elegance and wonderful water views, all of the ways into the Machine Laundry Café, a stylish favorite with all the Hobart hipster audience. It is a place where you could anticipate to nab a good dinner in Hobart and do your laundry in a single spot.

However, most importantly, what Hobart (and frankly all Tasmania) does exactly the very best, is food. Any town, you stop you are sure to get a massive choice of fresh produce, fish and also a little town hospitality that has been abandoned in the large cities in the world. If you are heading into Hobart, bring your foodie desire. You won’t be let down.

Tasmania’s Most Underrated Locations!

Lots of Tasmania’s attractions have been already well-known throughout Australia. Lots of the most intriguing things to see and do on the island do not suffer from overcrowding. You won’t find one of these locations on a postcard, but each one of these destinations is worth going out of your way to visit, and if you spend time there, you won’t be short on personal space.

South Bruny

Many people visit Bruny to either go to Cloudy Bay Lagoon or Adventure Bay. The northern side is very popular as there are markets with local produce, as well as cheese and oyster farms. If you are feeling adventurous and braving the gravel paths, then it is worth going down into the south end of this island. There is excellent surf fishing to be done at Neck Beach. In here you can catch gummy sharks, flathead, and large rays.

Boat Harbour Beach

Among the very best little beaches in Tasmania is only ten minutes drive out of Wynyard but when it’s winter, you’ll be lucky to see another person. You will find clean white sands and sparkling clear water, with lots of rock pools for exploring.

King Island

Located in the centre of Bass Strait is the beautiful King Island. The green pastures make the island a supply of excellent dairy goods, that you can sample in the King Island Dairy. There is fantastic surfing and plentiful fishing to be done here. You can fly directly to King Island from Melbourne Airport or Launceston. There are some excellent accommodation choices and places to eat, so be sure to spend a couple of nights here.

Aurora chasing

Tasmania’s clean atmosphere and geographic location mean that it’s reputation is well-deserved, and among the greatest areas on the planet to observe the Aurora Australis. While it’s down to utter luck, the geomagnetic conditions will cause a spectacular aurora series. You can increase your chances of seeing the Southern Trail by subscribing to communities online that monitor it. You may be able to find a secret spot, and even pick up some helpful tips for your camera!

Maria Island

Maria Island is a really distinctive location, with no automobiles, no stores, and no pressure. Only off the East Coast of Tasmania, it can be reached via ferry from Triabunna. When you’re there, we recommend you go bike riding, hiking, and wildlife spotting. You can potentially witness a variety of endangered species, such as forester kangaroos, red-necked wallabies, and Tasmanian devils. A day trip is possible, but if you would like to remain overnight and explore the island fully, there are plenty of places to camp. When exploring Maria Island, make sure you see the Painted Cliffs: a series of patterned sandstone rock formations generated by the motion of mineral-rich water colliding with the rock. The combination of the wind and water causes subsequent eroding. They’re amazing and beautiful.

Huon Valley

The Huon Valley provides a number of Tasmania’s most amazing scenery. The city of Huonville sits directly on the banks of the Huon River and is a treasure trove of traditional stores. There is a yearly folk festival here if you wish to see some talented local acts.

Friendly Beaches

Regardless of the fact that they lie directly at the entry to the Freycinet National Park, the Friendly Beaches only draw a small portion of visitors in the area. Many men and women drive straight past the sign and keep heading to the more famous Wineglass Bay and beyond. In the friendly the Friendly Beaches are not staffed by a lifeguard, but surfing and fishing are equally popular, and there is camping available at the northern corner of the shore near Isaacs Point. Friendly Beaches are beautiful, distant, and serene. If you’re in look of a place to rest, you will find some of the finest luxury accommodation Tasmania has to offer in Freycinet. If you do so, be sure to treat yourself to a luxurious day spa.

5 New Stylish and Comfortable Accommodation Options in Tasmania

Whether it be a private retreat on a lake in the wilderness, to safari style tents on a truffle farm, Tasmania’s luxury tourism boom shows no sign of easing up. There are new major hotel developments in Hobart and Launceston on the horizon, and two high-class lodges planned for Port Arthur. 

Here are five recent accommodation arrivals that offer artistic style and comfort in boutique hotels on the Apple Isle. 

The Corinda collection 

One of Hobart’s most gracious old homes, National Trust-listed Corinda, has recently undergone a tasteful renovation. 

Corinda has something for everyone, whether you are looking for an authentic colonial-style guest house experience, a garden suite or more modern self-contained accommodation.   

New owner Julian Roberts’ great-great-grandfather, wealthy timber merchant Alfred Crisp, built this magnificent private house – one of Hobart’s biggest – in the early 1880s. He went on to become Lord Mayor of Hobart. 

Corinda is tucked away in the heritage suburb of Glebe. There are views across the city to Mount Wellington, but you are just a short stroll to the Hobart waterfront. 

Rooms start from $299. corindacollection.com.au 

The retreat at Pumphouse Point 

Pumphouse Point is one of the most spectacular resorts in Tasmania, much photographed for its luxury over-water suites on Lake St Clair. 

This famous post-industrial site has been refurbished to offer customers a boutique accommodation inside Tasmania’s Wilderness World Heritage Area, offering just 18 rooms in the Pumphouse building out on the lake and also in the Shorehouse building on the water’s edge. 

The latest addition is a one-off luxury suite known as The Retreat, offering the highest-standard accommodation at the resort. The suite is hidden away on the edge of the lake, surrounded by native bush. Prices start from $1275 a night inclusive of all food, an expansive larder with the best local produce, wines and Tasmanian craft beers, ciders and spirits. 

The Retreat features locally crafted contemporary furniture, ceramics, bath products and two deep tubs for soaking (one under the stars). Spend your days rowing, trout fishing, mountain biking and hiking bush trails. pumphousepoint.com.au/the-retreat

Truffle Lodge 

Overlooking the Derwent River outside New Norfolk, Truffle Lodge takes camping to a whole new level, billing itself as the ultimate in glamping. 

Next to a hazelnut-planted trufferie, the resort is on 4.8 riverside hectares dotted with eucalyptus trees that provide much-needed habitats for the endangered swift parrot. 

There are several double tents with big double beds, decks overlooking the river and full bathrooms with their own wooden bathtubs. 

Each tent has hardwood floors and is double-walled and triple-roofed for maximum insulation. Plans are for eight tents following the river line. Each will have a fan and electrical fan-forced mock fire.   

All tents have a coffee machine, towels, bar fridge, hair dryer, rocking chairs on the deck, hammock and free Wi-Fi; along with access to public lounge and dining areas. From $495 per night. trufflelodge.com 

The Old Bank 

In the lovely heritage village of Cygnet, one of Tasmania’s landmark bed and breakfasts has reopened under new ownership. 

The Old Bank is a National Trust-listed 1909 Victorian building on the main street of Cygnet. Completely refurbished after being closed for five years with Australian furniture designers, it is a delightful country town retreat with three stylish, beautifully appointed rooms overlooking the town square. 

Cygnet is a creative, bustling town with local food, wines, ciders, coffee, galleries and markets to entice visitors, as well as television’s Gourmet Farmer Matthew Evans’ Fat Pig Farm and Restaurant. The hamlet is surrounded by beautiful countryside and offers small town facilities including cafes and shops. 

All The Old Bank’s rooms have TVs and DVD players (with DVDs on request), in-room heaters, free Wi-Fi and Netflix, luxury toiletries, premium linen, warm bathrobes, slippers and hairdryer and are serviced daily. 

The Conservatory Cafe serves breakfasts/lunches Friday-Tuesday. Rooms from $239 per night. cygnetoldbank.com.au 

Launceston might be lagging behind Hobart for new hotel openings – but the new Peppers Silo Hotel will change that when it opens in April or May. 

The 108-room hotel is a $25 million redevelopment of the landmark Kings Wharf grain silos. 

The 10-storey development will have 52 rooms in the barrels of the former silo and overlooks the tourist draw cards of Seaport, Royal Park, the Tamar River Basin and Cataract Gorge. 

Chef Massimo Mele, recently returned to Tasmania from Sydney, will oversee the culinary offerings. Prices start from $199.

Saffire Freycinet, Coles Bay, Tasmania 

Shaped like a sinuous manta ray, contemporary retreat Saffire Freycinet teams luxury hotels with pure Tasmanian nature. Located midway up the east coast, its 20 suites and gourmet Palate restaurant have floor-to-ceiling windows framing panoramas of the Hazards Mountains. Tailored experiences connect guests with the environment, from visiting a marine oyster farm to boating to Schouten Island and going to Wineglass Bay. Team your trip with a visit to MACq 01, a Hobart hotel inspired by the characters of Tasmania.  

 

Travel vs Home Renovations

When deciding whether to travel or undertake any home renovation such as a home extension you need to consider the following. Why are you wanting to improve, expand or change your home in some way? or do you need a change which can potentially be achieved with a short break or holiday? If you wish to go down the house extension path then here are some things to consider.

Many properties have an untapped potential, and renovations are able to make a house more enjoyable to reside in as well as adding to its market value.

Be aware of the area

Before you start that extravagant expansion or costly conversion, then it is vital to speak with a local real estate agent to learn what sort of renovations are popular locally. Every road has a ceiling value and thus don’t over-do-it if you would like to gain a fantastic return on your investment.

RESEARCH FIRST

While most modern extensions are a world away from these awkward structures which try unsuccessfully to combine the present building with the extension, they have moved on in the ultra-modern glass boxes and blended materials of the previous couple of decades. People are still keen to modify the structure of a building and do something a little more dramatic like incorporate curved timber, but purity is a huge trend, and having plenty of different materials is much less fashionable than it has previously been. Opting for something much more elegant such as pure white-rendered extensions work nicely on period homes, or select a layout clad completely in wood.

Judith Tugman of Architect Your House agrees that people need easy, light, airy spaces; a blank canvas that they could decorate and personalise with timber products perhaps. They are utilizing natural materials to make modern extensions which are both functional and warm.

With more people working from home, this has come to be an even more common reason to expand. They have a lot of customers who need a work space that can be hidden away simply by the fold of a lever for example.

This shift has seen many people are turning rooms in the front part of the home into an office and redesigning the rear of the home as the primary living area. Because of this, getting your audio-visual gear, plasma display, lighting and Wi-Fi incorporated into the structure is a clever thought.

Unsurprisingly, there has been a large move towards sourcing more environmentally sound materials, and government regulations imply that any new construction has to stick to energy-saving guidelines. Materials like bamboo, that is economical, durable and eco-friendly, are extremely popular, and people are also asking for low-VOC paints.  ‘One in four lighting in new constructions should be reduced energy, and suitable insulation can also be crucial. In the long term, obviously, each one these components will cut down your energy bills too.

Your budget

Having a budget makes it easier when working with an architect and builder as they can see what they can achieve with the amount you are willing to spend. Some builders may even be able to perform a job for a little bit less where you can then put that money to higher end fittings, etc.

  • A typical guideline is to allow $250 per sq feet of renovation, and remember you are not only considering the expansion but the present space indoors, also.
  • If you elect for less expensive fixtures and fittings, then you can squeeze this down to $200, but if you go for high quality that may rise to $300 a sq ft.
  • Bear in mind, in addition to the construction budget, there’ll be an architect, engineer and contractors’ fees, authorities VAT and building control and preparation expenses, too.
  • Do not forget to allow a contingency fund of 10 percent for unforeseen conditions.

Ground-level extensions

Up until very recently, the front part of the home has been the most social area of the house and the kitchen and back were only functional spaces. Today, with cooking a more popular hobby, open-plan kitchen-diners are increasingly in demand. Buyers enjoy distances that suit their way of life and ambitions, and side extensions and big living/dining areas appeal to the way people live today. A sizable, well-lit family room which has access to this backyard is a large selling point.

The largest ground-level extensions are integrated indoors, but also blur the boundaries between indoors and outdoors. The flow of this construction, finishes and materials like the flooring may work together with the outside area to make them feel the exact same thing.

Full-height doorways can help connect the inside to the backyard, and also in winter once the doors have been shut it can nevertheless give the impression it is one big space.

Given that your property has not been extended previously, it is possible to expand by up to 50 cubic metres, so long as it is over 4m above ground level, or 10 percent of the present floor area, without getting planning permission. Nevertheless, check before undergoing a job if there are different conditions which apply.

Occasionally simply removing inner walls may open up a room without needing to eat into precious space from the backyard. And remember that using a side return may increase the size of your kitchen by around 40 percent.

Undergoing a renovation can provide you with the fresh change you need and provide you with a holiday oasis within your own home. A home away from home so to speak.

Keeping Your Skin Healthy While Travelling

When considering how to look after your skin whilst moving around a lot, remember this; traveling skincare has to be different than home skincare. As your skin faces quite a few changes as you’re traveling, you must accommodate it by slightly altering your routine, also. With that in mind, here are some tips to make your next holiday skin-friendly!

Prepare ahead

Consider the trip to come. Are you going to be on a plane? Moving into a dry climate? Prepare your skin a couple of days beforehand and consider visiting a dermal clinician to refer you to the best travel products for your delicate face. Stir lightly and apply a hydrating mask (such as our Coconut Honey Mask). Even if you have oily skin, realize that the drying effects of traveling can cause your skin to overreact.

Package carefully

Do not forget that your skin will be under stress when traveling. That means any potentially irritating products will need to stay home–such as harsh cleansers, hydroxy acids, peels, resurfacing treatments, etc. You can even leave behind any technological gadgets such as skin scrubbing or laser healing items as they may become too bulky for your trip. Take along travel sizes of your gentle cleanser (try our Aloe Herb Facial Cleanser), your regular moisturizer, and a serum, which can allow you to counteract dryness (our Herbal Facial Oils work great!). Add in something to eliminate impurities (such as our Purifying Mud Mask or Dead Sea Scrub), your favorite eye cream, and a hydrating mask (such as our Coconut Honey Mask).

Contemplate going barefaced

Apply as little makeup as possible on your travel day. Makeup can settle into pores and hang onto germs, which you don’t want in your skin. Foundations may also be drying. In case you must meet up with people instantly once you arrive, take along a small bag with a cleanser, moisturizer, foundation, and lip color which you can apply from the plane bathroom before landing.

Counteract travel dryness

Apply your usual moisturizer before leaving (oils are best, as they penetrate deep into your pores), look at using a freshening mist along the way. It will help keep your skin hydrated in moist conditions, and might mean the difference between coming appearing dried up and dull or looking fresh and vibrant. The ideal mist can also give your skin with protective antioxidants.

Shield!

Do not forget your sunscreen! Even if you’re going to be within a plane daily, your skin requires the protection of a great sunscreen to help it withstand damage from UVA rays coming through windows.

Take along some blotting fabrics

If you have oily skin, then bring some blotting fabrics with you, which you can use while traveling. Oil-blotting papers can decrease oil and are far better than regular tissue, which may leave residue on your skin.

Keep your hands off your face

This is one of the biggest mistakes we could make when traveling. Particularly on airplanes or in public areas, we come in touch with a great deal of germs, so if we touch our faces, we are transmitting those germs on the skin, where they hang around to cause problems (such as pimples) later. If you have to touch your face, use a tissue or oil blotter as a shield between your hands and your skin.

Drink water

Ditch the sugar-laden juices and sodas and drink water instead. It helps keep your skin hydrated from the inside out.

And do not forget the eye cream!

Ice beneath the eyes. Under-eye circles are the bane of many a traveler. If you discover you have already developed them on the plane, ask the airline for some crushed ice and a towel. Apply it like an ice pack under your eyes. You may repeat this procedure before bed the first night to wake up looking more refreshed. Do not forget to use your eye lotion frequently to counteract under-eye dryness and reduce the appearance of fine lines.

Eat hydration

Since dehydration is the most frequent problem for skin when traveling, consider “water” when choosing your foods. Juicy fruits and veggies, soups, and fresh greens function best. Think cucumbers, watermelon, pineapple, celery, radishes, tomatoes, green peppers, strawberries, grapefruit, cantaloupe, oranges, lettuce, zucchinis, and cabbage.

Best Places to Stay in Perth

A little like double denim, Perth has made a comeback. From the buzzing art scene peppering inner-city Northbridge into the cutting-edge fashion and compact bars of William Street, discover your inner-hip from the WA capital.

In addition to this trend, Perth has seen a sprouting of edgy, boutique resorts. So, if you’re looking for a seriously trendy stay on the west coast, have a look at our collection of the city’s greatest below.

Alex Hotel

Northbridge

Northbridge is maybe one of Perth’s best kept secrets. Unused heritage buildings are being changed into boho pubs and restaurants for locals to play in, and the Perth Cultural Centre has ensued a lively mixture of imagination and art in the region. Located right in the heart of Northbridge is Alex Hotel. This boutique resort presents a clean, modern design, fitting in well beside its industrial neighbours.

Rooms tastefully blend a colour palette of neutral tones and flecks of pastels, and all are decorated with hand crafted furniture from Douglas and Bec. The queen and king-sized beds are resplendent in Beltrami Italian linens and feature classy bedheads and bedside lighting.

To grab one of Perth’s beautiful sunsets, visit the 6th floor rooftop bar overlooking town and recline in the aerial space using a craft beer or artisan soul.

Como The Treasury

Perth City Centre

If you’re the sort of traveller who is all about class, glamour, and fashion, look no farther than Como The Treasury! Set in a 19th century former government building, this hotel voices the grandeur of the past whilst offering all of the essential mod cons for the informed traveller. Think high ceilings and carved white columns alongside an indoor heated pool with cityscape views.

Holding the coveted title of best new ‘city resort’ in Australia, Como The Treasury treats guests to elegant rooms styled by Perth interior designers. All boast custom-made beds and freestanding Kaldewei baths, making relaxation key.

For some real comfort, take off your strappy heels and book a signature body treatment in the Shambhala Urban Escape Spa, with acupuncture, aromatherapy, and Swedish massages available. It’s ultimately a piece of paradise bundled into the one city-centre hotel.

Citadines St Georges Terrace

Perth City Centre

Hello glamour, hello St Georges Terrace! When it comes to sophisticated accommodation in Perth, this apartment hotel is at the helm of this scene. With all the essential mod cons of an apartment paired with the relaxation of a resort, Citadines St Georges Terrace makes for an enjoyable stay in Perth.

Rooms are modern in design, balancing coastal style with vibrant cityscape-themed art. Furnishings are contemporary and the large windows create the sensation of being in a stylish New York warehouse.

For people looking for a really relaxing experience, go for the one-bedroom deluxe that includes another living space in addition to an inviting spa tub to conclude your day in. Located only a short stroll from the scenic Swan River and Hay Street Mall, St Georges Terrace is ideally positioned in the thick of everything.

The Nest on Newcastle

Northbridge

The Nest on Newcastle is another welcomed characteristic of Perth’s Northbridge, and it’s easy to see why. The elegant boutique hotel successfully meets the requirements of the cool-seeking traveller due to its elegant design and artistic flair. Situated behind a 115-year-old heritage home, the resort seamlessly combines the old and the new, creating an eclectic and distinctive guest experience. Think exposed rock walls alongside glass doors and modern artwork.

The 20 rooms are tastefully designed, with quality furnishings and an array of modern amenities, including free Wi-Fi and a Nespresso coffee machine — perfect for those mornings in! It’s fair to say that interior designers in Perth know what they’re doing.

For a place of grub, visit the resort’s in-house restaurant, The Old Crow, which serves tasty Southern-American style sharing dishes and snacks. Quite simply, it is the perfect place in Perth where to nest for the weekend!

Sage Hotel

West Perth

Cutting edge, modern, and filled with pizazz — welcome to Sage Hotel. Among the newer hotel kid on the block, word is already out that Sage guarantees an exceptional experience from beginning to end.

Rooms boast a chic design, with clean lines and contrasting tones match for the modern traveller. Think minimalist furniture in dark forests and greys, with bright throws and feature pillows adding welcomed patches of colour. Not to mention generous space to store all your clothes and lace up sandals.

Sage Resort is positioned a short five-minute walk from the beautiful Kings Park, but in case you’d rather take things slowly and stay in, many communal facilities are available such as in-house restaurant, Julio’s. Located in the resort’s heritage-listed front construction, Julio’s serves contemporary Italian cuisine, with Chef Simone Ariano creatively working at the helm.

Attika Hotel

Northbridge

Are you an independent voyager who enjoys the ease of a serviced apartment? If so, you’ll be smitten with Attika Hotel. Located in the heart of trendy Northbridge, Attika hotel provides sophisticated, boutique style apartments, which boast a contemporary design and provide all the necessary amenities for a comfortable weekend off – so leave your going out shoes at home.

The apartments are appointed with fully equipped kitchens and are decorated with soft grey hues that echo the hotel’s contemporary exterior. Tasteful coloured throws and cloths are sprinkled throughout, creating a warm and inviting setting.

If you’re trying to find a home away from home, nestle at the one-bedroom executive apartment, which provides a dreamy king-sized bed in addition to an elegant separate living room that is fantastic for a place of entertaining!

Hotel Rottnest

Rottnest Island

Willing to frolic in refreshing waves as they lap against the sandy shore? Or how about catching some selfies with a family of friendly quokkas? Welcome to Rottnest Island! Located only a short ferry ride from Fremantle, this pedestrian-only island is the best way to experience island life with the convenience of being near the major city. Beach, sun, and character best resonate with this refuge, so if you are trying to find all of this and more, book a night at Hotel Rottnest.

Set in a former Government building that dates back to 1860, Hotel Rottnest offers you the opportunity to receive your old-school classic on! Rooms are restored and refurbished in tranquil beige and chocolate tones, with splashes of refreshing blue, creating subtle beach theme décor.

The resort presents a stylish blend of period features with all of the essential mod cons for the 21st century type of traveller. Bay side rooms boast private courtyards with sun lounges, umbrellas, and uninterrupted views of Thomson Bay — all that is left to bring is your bubbly!

Sorrento Beach B&B

Sorrento, Northern Perth

Classy elegance matches bespoke attention to detail in Perth’s Sorrento Beach B&B. Only a brief walk from beautiful Sorrento Beach, this bed and breakfast is a perfect solution for those seeking a chilled-out kind of weekend away in the bustling downtown.

The coolest thing about this place is that it is one booking per stay, which means that you’ll have the entire house to yourself. Hello independence! This is the perfect destination if you’re in Perth for a wedding, the entire bridal party can stay together – you’ll be tripping over all the bridesmaid’s shoes.

The home boasts spacious bedrooms, which are fitted with vintage-style furnishings and soft lighting. The open-plan living area upstairs is the perfect haven in which to recline, offering a LCD TV and a balcony which overlooks a panoramic canopy of treetops.

If you’re trying to dabble in Perth’s culinary scene, the B&B is situated a short stroll from Sorrento Quay Boardwalk, which delivers a yummy line-up of restaurants and pubs. Sounds like it is time for the weekend cocktails!

How to Have a Worry Free Holiday!

Small business owners may find it hard to take holidays during any time of the year. Two out of three entrepreneurs worry while on holiday, about everything from missed business opportunities through workers slacking off. Throw in concerns about the market and ever-rising fuel and energy costs, and it is no surprise that so many small business people are hesitant to take some downtime.

So what do we do to find the worry-free holiday time we will need to maintain ourselves and our small businesses flourishing?

1) Close the shop

One popular option for small business owners is to shut down during holidays. As an example, a local bakery has a history of being closed for the month of January while its husband and wife owners choose a holiday in warmer climes.

Closing down a service company for a brief time period is also possible with some advance preparation; it is essentially an issue of not scheduling appointments/commitments during a specific time period and letting clients know that you are going to be away ahead of time. This may be a good plan. But remember about your clients and customers, how will they feel if you close for a large period of time, and will they go elsewhere?

2) Take your company with you

Some business owners have the ability to take advantage of current technology and take their businesses with them when they travel – a terrific way to have a worry-free vacation. So long as it is possible to work remotely and are vacationing in areas with adequate technological tools (reliable electricity and wireless foundations, as an instance) you can use your smart phone/laptop/tablet to keep your business operating.

Your chances of a worry-free holiday are much improved as you are still able to keep tabs on things and deal with issues as they crop up. Obviously, though, taking your company with you whenever you travel will not work for some companies, which require face-to-face connections and/or hands-on production. It doesn’t matter how many muffin dictates the bakers I mentioned above have the ability to take if there is nobody on site to bake them.

3) Locate replacement management

For most small companies, this past worry-free vacation option is the best. The company continues to operate and earn cash and from a personal viewpoint, the small business owner gets what he or she most needs – a true break.

There are two things that you need to do if having someone look after your company while you’re gone is truly going to become a worry-free holiday experience for you; select the perfect person to handle your small business while you’re on holiday and train them to do it beforehand.

The best way of running a business while on holiday is to have somebody else manage the company while you’re away. Consider hiring a business coach, or an online business coaching company to help you run your business whilst you are relaxing in the Bahamas. These worry-free vacation tips will help make certain that you really receive a holiday when you go, as opposed to endlessly calling or texting to determine how things are going.

Running a business while on holiday will take a little bit of work beforehand on your part, but it is the best approach to really receive a worry-free holiday when you do actually take one. And, once your holiday plan is set up and you have someone ready to back you up, getting to have a holiday in the future is going to be a whole lot easier.

Using Wi-Fi Safely While Travelling

If you dread, as I do, racking up massive amounts of global roaming charges on your smart phone, it can be tempting to jump to some hot spot to do your browsing and e-mailing instead of private cloud computing. But though most of us know to avoid performing our online banking, through the free Wi-Fi link at a public hot spot, it might come as a surprise to find out that paid, social networks set us at risk well, such as those located in cafés, airports, and even resorts. And although a lot people exercise caution with our computers, we are frequently guilty of making our phones and tablet computers exposed, which could lead us into trouble such as real time GPS tracking and network security issues. An issue which James Lyne, director of technology strategy for the British security-software developer Sophos, calls the “smart-phone invulnerability complicated”.

According to Marian Merritt, Internet security urge at Norton by Symantec (maker of Norton AntiVirus), both main risks you face when using a hot spot are having someone monitor your online moves via the network you’re logged onto or deceive you into having a “bogus” hot spot, either by offering it up for free or mimicking the title of a legitimate one. In both instances, a hacker can potentially view your passwords, e-mail, social networks, bank account, files, and more. Here is how to maintain this sensitive information in a secure way.

Ensure your software is up-to-date.

The first line of protection is making sure that all of your software is up-to-date. Essentially, every release of software patches a number of security vulnerabilities that are out there. Before each trip or at least every couple weeks, it’s a great idea to check the company’s website (or search Google) to determine if a program or firmware update is available. When there’s a new one, download it, unless there is a massive amount of negative feedback from those who updated it prior to you.

Set up your phone’s security.

Switch off the wireless connection when you are not using it to remove the threat of mobile data capture. In addition, don’t forget that your device, particularly if it’s an Android, is vulnerable to malicious software. Norton, ESET, and Sophos all offer great mobile security and antivirus apps for smartphones.

Use long and strong passwords. Make your passwords hard to hack and unique, so if it is stolen it cannot be used to unlock other accounts. Use a digital password supervisor in case you have trouble recalling them all; Lyne recommends 1Password and LastPass.

Make sure that the network is encrypted and legit.

Do not presume that a hot spot is real just because the name that pops up on your mobile seems correct. If you are in a hotel or café, ask a manager to confirm the name of their own network and ask about whether the system is encrypted (i.e., locked and password protected). While online, remain on encrypted channels by using the website prefix https (rather than http). Perform your own type of network performance monitoring to ensure you are using encrypted sites.

Use a VPN (virtual private network).

Even if you’re on a password-protected network, there’s still the risk that someone will intercept your transmissions. To guarantee absolute privacy, use a VPN service, which essentially produces a network-within-a-network only for you. Boingo offers a VPN via its subscription programs which lets you access more than 500,000 worldwide hot spots. The newest Norton Hotspot Privacy agency may also route all of your traffic through a private link.

Buy a data plan.

As a general rule (unless News of the World had you in its sights), your mobile network is protected. The two AT&T and Verizon have recently introduced affordable worldwide data roaming packages: When in doubt, stick to a wireless carrier.

Internet Security when using a public computer

When travelling you are not in the comfort of your own smart home, with your devices properly secured. Public computers are frequently a lot easier than carrying around your own devices. They are also easy to find. Look for a nearby internet café or ask your hotel if they own a computer for guests. However, you still have to be smart when using a public computer or some other public device.

          Do not use a public computer for jobs that require a login. As an example, checking train times or museum hours do not pose a threat, but logging into your bank account or checking your email can leave you vulnerable to hacking or theft.

           If you have to access a personal account, ensure that the Web browser you use will not store your login information and clear the history until you leave.

          For specific accounts, like a bank or email accounts, establish a two-step confirmation process. That way you are required to put in your password and a second code whenever you log in.

          Be conscious of your environment and keep your screen from view particularly when you’re entering any passwords or private information.

In case the worst does happen and your personal info is hacked or your own device gets stolen, make sure you are prepared.

Travelling the World in a Camper Van

You do not have to be a hippy to hit the road in a van, there are few better ways to see the world and here is how to start. While exploring America’s mother road, Route 66, in a campervan, I found myself lost in Bryce Canyon National Park late in the night. Tired, I pulled over and wild camped, the big benefit of driving your own ‘resort’. The following morning I realised I wasn’t far from a 2,000m-high glance, at which I came, bleary-eyed, in sunrise, completely unprepared for the landscape spread out before me.

From my randomly found vantage point I watched the day break over a 30km-long set of eccentric amphitheatres and pinnacles, all rich-reds and yellow-oranges; the kind of image that burns to your memory. And it was a fluke made possible simply by travelling in a campervan.

The USA is created for campervanning. Other countries can be less hospitable, but still attainable to those with a van and a spirit of adventure. The open street lures campervanners. Speak to camper owners as the opinion is much the same: those vehicles give you the liberty to go where you want, when you want, knowing you’ve got a comfy bed awaiting you at the end of the night.

This freedom also means you’re not held to ransom by outrageous prices for a cuppa at a tourist place, and you won’t ever be caught short in a public place. Additionally, campers carry all of the amenities you need to reside ‘off-grid’, away from mains electricity and water supplies with some having added luxuries such as automotive leather and the latest multimedia technology. Below are a few places you should you go in your campervan adventure.

New Zealand

Nature pulls out all the stops right out of your window, a conveyor belt of peaks, beaches, fiords, and glaciers. New Zealand’s landscape changes constantly. You can be driving through a valley, with mountains soaring either side with the air flowing in through the Webasto sunroof, then across the corner to find a wild shore or the tip of a glacier field. That is the beauty of New Zealand, it crams a huge drama in its small proportions.

The delight of exploring by camper is that, should you like an area, you can stay the night: local law permits you to free camp so long as you’re at least 15km from the nearest large town and off the public street.

The winter months (Jun-Aug) are a great time to see New Zealand in all its exotic glory, when waterfalls cascade off the mountains and the seas continue to be packed with whales. Avoid peak season (Jan-Mar) and you’ll have the streets pretty much to yourself.

Best drives

  • Te Anau to Milford Sound Drive: through beech trees into the gold meadows of Fiordland National Park, before winding down to the Audio. A simply stunning route.
  • Coromandel Peninsula: The area that goes from Waihi in the south to Port Jackson from the north is a superb, forested mountain driveway.

 

Although the country’s road networks are great, a few of NZ’s best bits require a little leg work to reach. Get off the road and on a bicycle. You’ll find a vast network of cycling routes, for each and every ability. Perfect for investigating where four wheels can’t go.

Australia

Here the drive is where scale is everything, never-ending horizons, big skies and the longest open streets ever.

Australia is vast. In the outback you can drive all day and not see a soul, a complete dream for self-sufficient campervanners and ideal for off-road desert experiences. However, at its edges things aren’t so intense, a diverse and unique mix of reef-meets-rainforest, long sandy coasts, vibrant cities and fascinating hinterlands, well set up for vanning exploration.

Watch out for road trains, though, these trailer-towing behemoths can be over 35m long. They churn up a lot of dust, and overtaking them requires time. There’s significant (if intriguing) wildlife to prevent too, many rental campers will be fitted with 4wd bull bars to shield against roaming cattle and kangaroos.

Best drives

  • Adelaide to Melbourne: contains one of the best roads in the entire world: the Great Ocean Road.
  • Fraser Island: spend weeks wildlife-spotting and nights around the campfire. Also, 4WD vanners will love nipping up and down the enormous golden beaches.
  • Cape York’s Overland Telegraph Track: A favourite of serious off-road fans; includes a wilderness peninsula of tropical forest and savannah, just suitable for hardy 4WDs in the dry season (May-Oct).

It’s easy to dismiss rural Australia as an empty, barren atmosphere. Yes, it is stark, but there is a lot of personality off these razor-straight roads. Meet the Aborigines of the Red Centre’s Pit Lands, just south of Uluru, or follow Simon Reeve’s information on unearthing Australia’s greatest surprises.

South America

Wild paths for intrepid vanners. Arranging a camper excursion in South America is much more an art than a science. Work out what you would like to see and come up with a path around that and the seasons, stay flexible and you will be rewarded with actual experience.

From the barren wilderness, magnificent mountains and huge plateaus to coastal streets passing seas occupied with penguins and whales, this can be a continent ripe for exploring. Argentina is possibly the very camper-friendly nation in the area, as a result of its off-road community, its national parks along with its abundance of industrial campsites with electrical hook-up.

Greatest drives

To Tierra del Fuego: Journeys down both the west and east coasts of Argentina into the top tip of South America are magnificent, with a few unsealed road surfaces it makes it popular for 4WD cars with a roof rack platform.

  • The Lake District: Spanning both Chile and Argentina, this bulk of waterways provides spectacular driving on great roads.
  • Even the pampas: Just south of Buenos Aires, these crazy grasslands, filled with birds, provide fabulous extended drives.

 

What I saw when I got to Seattle?

A trip to Seattle sees a number of items ticked off the bucket list, however, what most people don’t realise is that for the second year in a row, Seattle was appointed the crane capital of America with no other city even close, as the local building boom changing the city shows no signs of slowing down.

Driving around Seattle you will see almost a crane on every block, there is no doubt that you will not see a bundle of cranes when you travel to what is known as the city of cranes.

Seattle had 58 building cranes soaring over the skyline at the start of the month, about 60 percent more than any other U.S. town, according to a new semi-annual count from Rider Levett Bucknall, a company that monitors the smallest to the largest cranes across the globe. Seattle first topped the record a year ago, as it also had 58 cranes, and again in January, when the tally grew to 62.

Being appointed the crane capital has come to signify the rapid expansion and changing nature of this city, as mid-rises and skyscrapers pop up at where parking lots and single-story buildings once stood.

Having the title of the most of cranes will be here to stay, at least for a while. The city’s construction craze is continuing at the exact same pace as last year, while cranes are on the decline in other cities: crane counts in major cities nationwide have dropped 8 percent over the past six months.

At the last count, Seattle had only six more cranes than the next-highest city, Chicago. However, it holds a 22-crane lead over second-place Los Angeles, with Denver, Chicago and Portland just behind. Seattle has over double the cranes of San Francisco or Washington, D.C., and three times as many cranes as New York. It has more cranes than New York, Honolulu, Austin, Boston, and Phoenix combined.

At the same time, Seattle’s construction cycle does not seem like its slowing down. In the larger downtown area, 50 big projects are scheduled to start construction this year, according to the Downtown Seattle Association. An extra 99 improvements are in the pipeline for future years. And that is on top of what is already the busiest-period ever for construction in the city’s centre.

There is continued construction activity where projects which are finishing up are rapidly replaced with new projects starting up. It is projected that it’s likely to continue for at least another year or two. It mostly has to do with all the tech industry expanding quite a bit in Seattle. This is also due to the booming tourism industry and increase in visitors to the city.

Companies that supply the tower cranes say there is a shortage of both equipment and manpower, where companies need to book the cranes and their operators a few months beforehand. However, crane+hire=new buildings and infrastructure, which is why the demand for crane hire is on the rise.

Many cranes continue to be clustered in downtown and South Lake Union, but several different areas have at least one, from Ballard to Interbay and Capitol Hill to Columbia City. Some local suburbs now have cranes as well. There are just four from Bellevue, down from eight earlier in the year, though there are many large projects in the pipeline, as explained by city officials.

The building craze is driven largely by the requirement for flats to accommodate the flood of new residents pouring in, as the local economy continues to add jobs. The city is anticipating a record number of new rental units to be on the market this year as well as purchase apartment opportunities this year.

The crane count has been fairly stable in Seattle. After surging 43 percent over the last half of 2015, the neighbourhood crane tally has levelled off in the last year and a half. Seattle still lags behind Toronto, with 81 cranes, for the most in North America. As seen by visits in other international cities still have significantly more cranes than cities in the United States.

Where to stay on your next holiday

Something similar to an internal alarm clock seems familiar to nearly every Australian who grew up in the country with abundant wildlife, and the sound of birds chirping in the trees. As the temperature rises and we fall to the pre-Christmas hurry, a voice somewhere inside tells us it is time for a beach vacation, especially for those who are not living in the quiet and humble life of the country’s surrounds. We have scoured the coastline to get some of the best beach houses to travel to but not only for the holiday factor but also for stunning Australian décor, with holiday houses shinning in luxurious style and design; from the adorable retro shack with the sandy path leading to the shore, through to the new-wave beach houses which are in a class all to their own.

Pretty Beach House, Central Coast, NSW

This house located in the Central Coast of NSW, brings the Aussie beach home into a whole new level of luxury including modern decoration and design. Dine in the atrium dining area in your own personal pavilion, in the wine cellar or al fresco surrounded by Australian plants. Each pavilion provides water views, a king bedroom with a dressing room, open-plan sitting room, fully stocked bar, combustion fireplace, private deck with a day bed and a heated plunge pool.

Ala Moana, Hamilton Island, QLD

Push open this house’s solid wood wooden door, and enjoy uninterrupted views across the sublime turquoise waters of the Whitsunday Islands. Inside you’ll find an open-plan kitchen, dining room for dinner parties together with your personal chef (at an extra cost), separate living room with Aboriginal art, custom-made oversized lounge and groovy armchairs from Space Furniture, a TV room, chic iconic outdoor furniture and much more. Pietra Grigio marble is used throughout the home and a soothing water feature runs down the buildings back to a bubbling spa and infinity pool. Additionally, there are five luxurious guest rooms.

Zealandia, Portsea, Victoria

This classic 1950s beach house has an old-time Hollywood glamour texture with its decorative lines, classic designer furniture and backyard pool. While the home is full of the likes of many popular Melbourne icons, it’s also perfect for that getaway trip. Within the house, the interior design style of different original artworks and other timeless pieces somehow remains unpretentious. Named after a New Zealand boat that once sailed between the heads of Port Phillip Bay, Zealandia includes three bedrooms, a slate fireplace, central heating, a leather Eames recliner and quirky fixtures like an old surfboard suspended on the living room wall and native artwork such as fish traps and tribal sticks.

Altitude Beach House, Great Ocean Road, VIC

This newly opened beach house is set within the Otway National Park on a hill with coastal views and is large enough for groups of 12. Children receive their own escape and rumpus room, while adults can relax with everything at their fingertips, such as deep window tub with panoramic views and sumptuous master bedroom having a large circular window. There are another three baths, two outside decks, barbecue, modern kitchen and home appliances (including two TVs with DVD, Foxtel and integrated surround sound system). Bush-walking paths are on its doorstep, surfing beaches within sight and the famous Wye River Pub is a brief stroll away. There are loads to research about the nearby area, including secluded bays, fisherman’s shacks and beautiful beaches. After your surf, have a hot or cold shower at the frangipani-filled tropical garden and admire the beach homeware surrounding you. You are close enough to all the action of the bays, but it’s only a two-minute stroll along a sandy pathway to Australia’s most famous surfing beaches.

The Summer House, Fleurieu Peninsula, South Australia

Using its “Hamptons” inspired feel, this three-bedroom escape brings a new level of elegance to the Fleurieu Peninsula. The all-white home features dark wood flooring, designer furniture, king-size beds, two king-size single beds and a modern kitchen. This is a home with covered deck created from spotted gum which forms the heart of the home, with coastal home decor doors leading from the living room, all the to the master bedroom. A short stroll along a scenic coastal walkway is Horseshoe Bay, where you will find the Flying Fish Restaurant and Kiosk, while the adorable township features diverse stores.

Bay of Fires Lodge, Tasmania

This iconic eco-lodge can be found in the Bay of Fires, which Lonely Planet describes as the “hottest travel destination for 2009”. Once the exclusive domain of guests taking the four-day Bay of Fires Walk, the lodge now could be hired for private use. The four-wheel-drive driven by our young and competent host virtually swims through rivers to get to the wild coastal destination. After showing us to our comfortable guestroom, one of 10, we’re treated to a feast of “fish in a bag” and dessert accompanied by local wine.

New Yarra Valley Trail Offers Exciting Travel Opportunities

A brand new 40-kilometre biking and walking route suggested for the Yarra Valley will set a constant off-road loop among the nation’s hottest tourist playgrounds.

The Lilydale to Warburton Rail Trail at Seville.

The new route would operate from Lilydale to Yarra Glen, Yarra Glen to Healesville, also out of Healesville around to a present railroad station near Woori Yallock.

It would run near tourist and restaurant Yarra Valley drawcards like the Healesville Sanctuary, Yering Station winery along with other popular wineries, Yarra Glen Railway Station and also TarraWarra Museum of Art. A feasibility study on the road has estimated that it would create 210,000 visitors each year, greater than $30 million of annual financial benefit and over 220 jobs. A report recently prepared for Yarra Ranges councillors stated the project cost was $10.6 million.

The road would create a constant off-road circuit throughout the Yarra Valley of at least 60 kilometres, starting and ending at Lilydale, by linking up with all the Lilydale to Warburton Rail Trails. Cyclists can extend their travel by about 17 kilometres farther east, to Warburton, along the present trail, prior to returning to Lilydale. Yarra Ranges councillors have endorsed the job, and council believe it a “priority”.

There isn’t any demand for an automobile and the road will offer a convenient day trip to the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges and its own well-established wineries and meals destinations, important National and State Parks and the Healesville Sanctuary Zoo, the report indicate. The road will encircle breathtaking vistas of both Christmas Hills and the Dandenong Ranges supplying a special recreation and cultural experience for your local community and people.

Robyn Mansfield in the Yarra Ranges Council stated the road would be a significant drawcard.

He perceives it as another chance for them to innovate the Yarra Valley as a premier tourist destination and also something that’s also likely to encourage their regional inhabitants they believe.

Significantly, the road would provide anglers a different means to manoeuvre around the district according to Robyn who views it as a really car-dependent place on the market. So, it could also supply far more chances for the regional inhabitants to become more-busy and be more connected with their neighborhood place.

Simon O’Callaghan out of Yarra Ranges Tourism explained that the project could build on additional nature-based Yarra Valley experiences. He is very excited about this track that produces a loop which can encourage overnight stays and additional tours of each yarra valley vineyard near the trails. He also believes a great deal of travellers on global bike trails are searching for mid-week traveling too.

Bicycle Network CEO Craig Richards strongly endorsed the suggested route. “This is a great project that would not only let locals explore their own backyard by bike, but also further open the area up to tourism,” he explained.

What to Do Before You Leave On Your Next Travel Adventure

Before embarking on a holiday, there are lots of important preparations to make. Every trip will have different preparations, but there are some common steps you should always take care of.

Keep your materials organized in one location. You don’t want to have your plane ticket on your desk, your luggage at home, your heavy women’s boots packed in your luggage, and your necessary papers at the downtown office. Get all the materials necessary for your trip in one place ahead of time so you can be sure you won’t forget anything vital.

Catch up on your schedule. Pay upcoming bills early, finish up the paperwork you’ve been putting off, and do anything else that should be finished by the time you get back. You probably won’t get a chance to do it on the road, and you definitely don’t want to miss a house payment because you were at an industry show. Take care of things lined up for a day or two after you expect to return in case of delays.

Leave contact information. Even if you don’t want to be disturbed while you’re gone, someone back home should be able to get in touch with you. Let them know what flight you’re taking, where you’re staying, phone numbers you’ll be accessible at, and similar pertinent information. Maintaining a link back home is crucial, especially in a case of emergencies.

Budget plenty of time. Get to the airport early, leave early if you’re driving, just do everything early. It’s much better to show up hours ahead than hours behind, after all, and punctuality is a trait your colleagues and customers admire. By that same token, plan to arrive home again later than you intend. That way no one is likely to be counting on you for anything when you return, so you’re less likely to disappoint anyone.

Ten Things You Don’t Want to Forget

Cash. There’s no guarantee that your bank will have a branch in the area you’re visiting, and you never know when you might need an emergency can of gas from a station that doesn’t take credit cards. It’s not wise to travel with large sums, obviously, but $100 should give you a nice safety net.

Change. In addition to paper money, take a few dollars in change for pay phones, toll booths, parking meters, and the like.

An emergency card. Write down the names, phone numbers, and addresses of at least two people to notify in case of an emergency, and keep that in your billfold or purse.

A travel guide. Take a copy of a Fodor’s guide or some other book about the city or region you are visiting. It will help you get your bearings and save time you’d waste trying to find places on your own.

The second form of identification. Carry something besides your driver’s license, like your Social Security card or birth certificate. Slip-ups on the road, such as run-ins with the police, go much more smoothly when you have two forms of ID.

An alarm clock. You can’t always depend on wake-up calls. If your mobile phone has an alarm function, even better. Time management is crucial when traveling.

Prescription medication. If you’re currently on any kind of prescription, be sure to take your medication with you. It may seem obvious, but it’s a commonly overlooked item that could make or break the entire trip.

Business cards. They’re a no-brainer if you’re going to a convention or meeting with a client, but you should take them even on trips where you don’t expect to do any business with new people. You never know when an opportunity will arise.

A good paperback. When traveling, you will inevitably hit a space of time where you have nothing at all to do, whether you’re waiting for a flight or turning down for the night. You’ll be glad you brought a book instead of having to review product specifications for the hundredth time.

Your smile. You’d think this one would be obvious, but people forget it all the time. Your smile is your most effective tool for winning trust, inspiring confidence, and improving your attitude…so don’t leave home without it!

Following these guidelines ensures that the trip itself goes smoothly and will help avoid complications, saving you a lot of stress and headaches. Time spent on preparation is rarely wasted. These preparations lay the groundwork for a smooth return home as well, as you will see in the next guide. Oh and don’t forget comfortable therapy shoes, travel involves a lot of walking.